self-important

adjective

self-im·​por·​tant ˌself-im-ˈpȯr-tᵊnt How to pronounce self-important (audio)
-tənt
Synonyms of self-importantnext
: having or showing self-importance
self-importantly adverb

Synonyms of self-important

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Examples of self-important in a Sentence

a self-important businessman who believed his schedule mattered more than anyone else's
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This isn’t just one self-important critic’s opinion — Berry herself has talked about it. — David Fear, Rolling Stone, 13 Feb. 2026 Self-righteous and self-important, priggish and nagging. — Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 6 May 2026 Not to throw shade, but Aries can be self-important, similarly to how Collins deals with his relationship to others. — Lisa Stardust, PEOPLE, 22 Nov. 2025 Laugh-In’s producer always thought this won Nixon the election (producers can get a little self-important). — Howard Homonoff, Forbes.com, 18 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for self-important

Word History

First Known Use

1732, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-important was in 1732

Rhymes for self-important

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Browse Nearby Words

self-importance
self-important
self-imposed
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Cite this Entry

“Self-important.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-important. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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